Ola launches a Covid-19 fund for its driver partners in Australia

Ride-hailing major Ola has announced a Covid-19 special fund to help its driver-partners in Australia. 

The fund will allow its drivers in Australia to claim financial assistance for up to 14 days if they are asked to self-quarantine and the amount a driver will receive will depend upon the average daily earnings of the individual.

These funds are a much-needed layer of financial security for drivers and their families in these challenging times, a media report quoted Simon Smith, International Head of Ola as saying. 

Australia has reported over 1,800 confirmed Covid-19 cases so far. 

To further contain the spread of the virus, the company is working with the government to ensure that the affected drivers' accounts are temporarily put on hold. 

This development comes at a time when the Bengaluru-based company has also decided to provide financial aid for their driver-partners in India across all categories including Ola Bike, Ola Auto, Ola Rentals, Outstation and for spouses if they test positive. 

The affected driver-partners and spouses will be covered by an amount of Rs 30,000 to bear hospital expenses and self-isolation, as prescribed by the medical authorities. Besides, the drivers would also receive a compensation of Rs 1,000 per day for a maximum of up to 21 days. 

Separately, Ola has partnered with an online doctor consultation app Mfine which would offer free medical help for driver-partners and their family members. The company has also set up driver care and safety response teams for those drivers who are still working. 

With all such efforts and initiatives, Ola has become the first Indian company to start an employee fund outside the country for those affected by the pandemic. 

The Indian government has imposed a lockdown in all the 75 affected districts, including in Delhi, and Ola has limited its services temporarily in these places until further notice.